Instructor

This course explores the impact of genetics on human behavior in relation to the environment. Behavioral genetics addresses questions such as: “How do genes determine behavior? How much of behavior is nature versus nurture? How do behaviors evolve?” The course and its text provide “a range of examples, such as laboratory studies on flies and mice, field observations on species as diverse as butterflies and meerkats, as well as human behavioral disorders. Students will become familiar with “genetic principles with neurobiological and ecological perspectives so they learn how to find and map genes that affect behaviors. They will also learn how the coordinated expression of ensembles of these genes enables the nervous system to express complex behaviors in response to changes in the environment”.

As a result of taking this course:

Students will be able to describe and explain the basic mechanisms of human genetics as applied to evolution and expression of behaviors. Supports PLOs 1 & 4 and is supported by module 1.

Students will be able to list and describe typical techniques used to measure behavioral variation in the lab and field. Supports PLOs 1 & 4 and is supported by modules 1-8.

Students will be able to describe and explain the basic concepts of variation and heritability of traits in populations. Supports PLOs 1 & 4 and is supported by modules 1-8.

Students will be able to list and describe the proven genetic contributions to human behavior and how they are modified by the environment. Supports PLOs 1 & 4 and is supported by modules 1-8.

Students will be able to explain how to use knowledge of human behavioral genetics for both social and clinical interventions. Supports PLOs 1 & 4 and is supported by modules 1-8.

None

Anholt, R.H., Mackay, T (2009). Principles of Behavioral Genetics. ISBN 9780123725752. New York, N.Y.: Elsevier. About $65 new, $25 used.

The Behavioral Medicine Research and Training Foundation is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Behavioral Medicine R&T Foundation maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

There is one year to complete the course.

There are no refunds issued after the course is purchased and course materials are received.